The Houston Texans are headed to the playoffs for the first time since 2019. The football franchise has been through many ups and downs ever since their inaugural season in 2002. Let’s take a look at their history.
The Start of The Texans
To the dismay of many football fans, Houston’s original team the Oilers moved to Nashville in 1997. However, the void for football was eventually filled, when the Houston Texans were established in 2002. The team was given the first overall pick in the NFL Draft and selected David Carr as their quarterback. The Texans kicked off their inaugural season with a win against the Dallas Cowboys. It was the first time a team had won their expansion debut in 41 years. Carr finished his first season with 2,592 passing yards, which set the franchise record for passing yards completed by a rookie in a single season.
The Highs of the Texans
Over the years, some Texans became household names. Some of the favorites include Andre Johnson and J.J. Watt. In 2003, Johnson was selected to play for the Texans as the number three pick during the NFL draft. He would become a celebrated player, leading the team to their first non-losing season in 2007. During his 12 seasons with the Texans, he led the team franchise in receptions, career receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns. When J.J. Watt joined the Texans in 2011, he became a breakout star on the team. During his eleven seasons with the franchise, he set the record for sacks, quarterback hits, forced fumbles, and more.
The Present Day
More recently, the Texans have faced controversy over their former quarterback Deshaun Watson. In 2021, he was sued by multiple female massage therapists for sexual harrassment and sexual assault. Watson denied the accusations and settled the majority of the lawsuits, but was traded to the Cleveland Browns last year. Now, the Texans have a new quarterback C.J. Stroud, who hails from Ohio State, and a new head coach, DeMeco Ryans. Stroud’s skills and Ryan’s leadership stood out throughout the season, turning over a new tide for the team. Over the weekend, the Texans were named AFC South Division Champs. They will host the Cleveland Browns at NRG Stadium on Saturday in their first round playoff game.
Are you a diehard Texans fan? Have a favorite memory from a game? I want to know.
